Naomi Eto Hails Cameroon’s Team Spirit After Shock Win Over Nigeria

By Dorcas Francis Koji

Cameroon midfielder Naomi Eto has credited the Indomitable Lionesses’ unity and fighting spirit for their impressive 1-0 victory over 10-time champions Nigeria in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final.

Cameroon secured a place in the semi-finals of the tournament in Morocco on Sunday after Myriam Wamen produced a stunning 19th-minute free-kick to settle a closely contested encounter against the Super Falcons.

The victory marked Cameroon’s second-ever WAFCON win over Nigeria and continued their unbeaten run in the expanded 16-team competition.

Eto, who is making her WAFCON debut after catching the eye during Cameroon’s campaign at the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia, has quickly become an important part of the senior team.

The 21-year-old midfielder believes the collective strength of the squad has been the foundation of Cameroon’s impressive campaign.

“Our greatest strength is the collective. There is an excellent atmosphere within the group, which allows us to approach each match with a lot of confidence and positivity,” Eto said.

She stressed that the players’ willingness to fight for one another has helped Cameroon overcome difficult moments throughout the tournament.

“Above all, we have a real fighting spirit. We constantly support each other, we encourage each other and, on the pitch, we form a real family.”

While acknowledging the individual quality within the squad, Eto insisted that Cameroon’s success has been built around teamwork rather than individual brilliance.

“Of course, we have talented players individually, but it is above all the group that is our strength. Our common goal always remains the same — to obtain the best possible result.”

Cameroon entered the expanded 16-team WAFCON tournament without being widely regarded among the leading favourites, but the Lionesses have continued to defy expectations.

Their latest triumph over Nigeria, the most successful team in the history of the competition, demonstrated their discipline, determination and growing confidence.

For Eto, reaching the semi-finals is further evidence of a team that has embraced the challenge without fear.

Having progressed through Cameroon’s youth ranks before earning her place in the senior side, the midfielder will now be hoping to play another important role as the Lionesses attempt to extend their unbeaten run and secure a place in the WAFCON final.